Water Ingress and Mould: The Silent Liability in New Builds
You expect a new home or development to be flawless — but hidden water damage and mould are becoming all too common in newly built properties across NSW. What causes this? Why is it so often missed during handover? And how can you protect yourself from costly post-build repairs and health risks?
Let’s explore why water ingress and mould are the silent liabilities in modern construction — and how a professional inspection can help you avoid trouble down the line.
The Problem: New Build, Hidden Flaws
More and more homeowners, builders, and developers are facing complaints or disputes just months after handover due to:
Damp walls or ceilings
Musty odours
Bubbling paint or plaster
Visible mould around bathrooms, windows, or roof spaces
In many cases, these are symptoms of water ingress — the unwanted entry of water into a structure — which leads to mould growth, structural damage, and even legal liability if not addressed.
Why Is This Happening in New Homes?
Despite strict construction codes, several factors are contributing to an increase in water ingress and mould in brand new builds:
1. Poor Waterproofing
Incorrectly installed or rushed waterproofing membranes around bathrooms, balconies, and roofs are a leading cause of slow leaks.
2. Inadequate Flashing and Drainage
Improper flashing around windows, doors, and roof joints allows rainwater to seep into the wall cavity or framing.
3. Defective Ventilation Design
New homes are being built tighter for energy efficiency — but without proper mechanical ventilation, they can trap humidity, fuelling mould.
4. Wet Trades Working Too Fast
Tiling, plastering, and painting over still-damp materials traps moisture behind finished surfaces, which later causes bubbling, stains, and mould.
Why It’s a Silent Liability
Water ingress and mould can go unnoticed during the handover period — especially if signs are hidden behind walls, under flooring, or in ceiling voids.
But the consequences can be serious:
Costly rectification after the builder's warranty ends
Health risks from airborne mould spores
Damage to reputation for builders or developers
Insurance complications if water ingress isn’t disclosed
Decreased resale value due to moisture-related defects
Don’t wait until stains appear — by then, damage may already be extensive.
Who’s Responsible?
If you’re a builder, developer, or project manager, you may be legally responsible for undiagnosed defects — especially if mould causes damage or health complaints.
If you’re a buyer, tenant, or property manager, you have the right to raise water damage and mould as defects — but must act early and gather evidence.
That’s where independent moisture and mould inspections can make all the difference.
How Confluence Environmental Can Help
At Confluence Environmental, we work with builders, homeowners, insurers, and facility managers to:
Detect hidden moisture using thermal imaging and moisture meters
Assess ventilation and moisture risks in new builds
Identify mould presence and growth risk
Provide detailed reports for warranty claims or rectification
Offer advice on ventilation, drainage, and remedial actions
We service the Central Coast, Newcastle, Hunter Valley, and Greater Sydney — with responsive turnaround and honest, practical advice.
Buying, building, or handing over a new property?
Book a pre-handover moisture inspection to avoid future liability and costly disputes.
Book online now or call 0493 042 642.
Final Thoughts
Just because a building is new doesn’t mean it’s dry — and water ingress and mould can silently turn your dream home or successful project into a ticking time bomb.
Whether you're handing over a build, moving into a new property, or managing liability risk, a professional moisture inspection is a small cost that can save thousands.
At Confluence Environmental, we help you detect problems early, protect health and investment, and stay compliant with confidence.